21-02-2025
What's the Best Motorcycle Helmet in 2025? We Asked the Experts
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This article was updated in February 2025 with new products and information.
Are you shopping for a new helmet? You probably should be. Experts recommend motorcyclists replace their helmets every five years. Improvements in construction, materials, and technology happen so often that today's helmets are far more advanced than those from even a decade ago.
Moreover, motorcycling is far more dangerous than driving. According to the NHTSA, in 2022 motorcyclists were about 22 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash, and four times more likely to be injured (per vehicle miles traveled).
Wearing a helmet while riding is a must, and it can save your life. But with so many on the market, which one is right for you?As the old saying goes, there are two types of motorcycle riders: those who have crashed, and those who will crash. Most of the time, a crash isn't even the rider's fault. According to the renowned Hurt Report, in 66% of motorcycle accidents, the other driver violated the motorcyclist's right of way.
Every time we throw a leg over and twist the throttle, motorcyclists leave our lives to chance. According to the NHTSA, in states without universal helmet laws more than 57 percent of motorcyclists killed in 2020 were not wearing helmets, compared to 11 percent in states with universal helmet laws. Wearing a DOT-certified helmet while riding is the single most important thing a motorcyclist can do to protect themselves.
For some expert insight into motorcycle helmets, we turned to Patrick McHugh, manager of product research and testing at Comoto, the parent company of popular motorcycle parts and gear retailers Cycle Gear and Revzilla. "My job is to have the gear market across the industry basically memorized and ridden in," McHugh says.
Choosing the right helmet depends on various factors, including the type of riding you do, where you ride, and your personal style preferences. Here's a brief guide to help you select the best motorcycle helmet for you.
Sport Riding: If you enjoy high-speed sport riding, a full-face helmet is ideal for maximum protection and aerodynamics.
Cruising: For leisurely rides or cruising, an open-face helmet might be comfortable, although it offers less protection than a full-face helmet.
Off-Road/Adventure: Off-road riders should consider dual-sport or motocross helmets, which offer good ventilation, a strong chin bar, a sun visor, and ample space for goggles.
Urban Areas: In congested areas, visibility and ventilation are critical. Consider helmets with wide eyeports and good airflow.
Rural/Highway: For longer, high-speed rides on highways, helmets with good noise reduction and wind resistance are beneficial. Some long-distance riders use helmet communications systems to stay connected or chat with other riders.
Which helmet you select will depend on a number of factors. Decide what's important to you, and prioritize the following:
Style: There are plenty of helmet types, colors, and graphics to choose from. A bright-colored, hi-vis, or even gaudy-graphic helmet might make a rider more conspicuous to motorists, and making sure drivers see you is one of the keys to riding—and arriving—safely.
Type of Riding: What, where, and how you ride is as important a consideration when shopping for a helmet as it is when buying a bike. There are many different ways to enjoy motorcycling, and there's a helmet to suit every style of rider and ride.
Fit: Your helmet must fit well and be comfortable; any decent helmet will offer multiple shell sizes and shapes to suit every shape and size of the head (more than that below). If you wear subscription glasses while riding, make sure the helmet and glasses can comfortably coexist for long stretches.
Weight: A lighter helmet might be more comfortable, but super-lightweight helmets (say, 3 to 3.5 pounds) tend to use premium materials and be more expensive. Either that, or they're cheap junk that you shouldn't buy.
Features, such as built-in speakers/comms systems (or places to install them) and internal sun visors, are essential to some riders but irrelevant to others. Decide what's important to you before committing.
Features: Things like built-in speakers/comms systems (or places to install them) and internal sun visors are essential to some riders, but irrelevant to others. Decide what's important to you before committing.
Noise: You'll never know how loud a helmet is until you ride with it. Buy a motorcycle helmet from a reputable motorcycle dealer or apparel retailer such as Cycle Gear that will usually let you return or exchange a helmet if it doesn't fit comfortably or is too loud.
Price: You don't need to spend a thousand dollars on a high-end helmet, but neither should you spend less than about a hundred. There are plenty of sub-$500 helmets that are excellent choices.
There are three main types of motorcycle helmets, with plenty of options within each segment to suit every motorcyclist's riding style:
This type of helmet has a solid chin bar that wraps around from one side of the face to the other, protecting the chin and jaw from impact in case of a crash. Paired with a visor, they provide premium face and head protection for motorcyclists. Full face motorcycle helmets are generally considered the best motorcycle helmets.
With a modular helmet, the aforementioned chin bar flips up on hinges to rest above the eyeport, to provide the rider some fresh air, wider sightlines, and the ability to converse with others. They're particularly handy at gas stations and for quick conversations among group riders.
There are various styles of open-faced helmets—3/4 helmets and caps (aka "brain buckets") chief among them. They're mainly popular among riders of Cruiser and Bagger motorcycles from OEMs like Harley-Davidson and Indian—although many younger Cruiser and Bagger riders are coming around to appreciate the advanced safety a full-faced motorcycle helmet offers. You won't find sportbike or ADV riders wearing open-faced helmets.
So which helmet is the one you need? McHugh offered the selections below as a starting point. Note that while we have linked to Revzilla and other Comoto brands, we've also linked to other retailers such as Amazon. By all means, shop around. Be advised, though, that many major moto-gear brands don't sell their products direct via Amazon; chances are, you're buying from a local dealership somewhere instead of a nationwide retailer with warranties, return policies, and other consumer perks.
Our advice? Head to a motorcycle dealership or your local Cycle Gear store (there are 140 across the U.S.) and try on a few helmets before purchasing one online.
My first job in publishing was at a motorcycle magazine, and I've been riding and reviewing motorcycles and riding gear for more than two decades. My knowledge of the market and deep connections in the industry make me the ideal expert to write this article.—Jon LangstonThe EXO-R1 Air brings a host of winning features to all styles of road riding. It utilizes a proprietary blend of fiberglass for high strength, low weight, and better impact dispersal. A central locking mechanism for the face shield guarantees an uncompromising seal at even the highest speeds.
Comfort is prioritized with inflatable cheek pads for a customizable fit and an internal liner that channels airflow efficiently. This design moves air from a large ram-air intake vent at the front to four exhaust ports at the rear, making it an ideal choice for daily riders prioritizing both safety and comfort. It's the ideal full-face motorcycle helmet for everyday motorcycle riders.
A newer, lighter-weight version of this helmet, the EXO-R1 Air Carbon, is available now ($550 at Amazon).
$399.95 at revzillaModular helmets combine the features of full-face and open-face helmets, providing versatility for riders. They're popular due to their convenient flip-up chin bar, which allows riders to eat, drink, and communicate without fully removing the helmet. This feature is especially practical when making quick stops, such as when refueling or asking for directions.
"For years, one of the most popular modular helmets on the market was the C3 Pro," McHugh said. "The C4 was a bit of a dud, but the Schubert C5 is a return to quality design and materials, great ventilation, and a comm-ready helmet. This one is really comfortable on longer hauls."
The C5 Carbon takes all this Schuberth comfort and tech and puts it into an even lighter shell. It costs far more ($1499 at Cycle Gear), but it's possibly the best motorcycle helmet on the market today.
$769.00 at revzillaFor premium quality at a midrange price, you can't go wrong with the AGV K6 S. It combines advanced MotoGP technologies with features that cater to various riding styles, including sport, touring, and commuting. Its carbon aramid fiber shell ensures lightweight durability and reduced turbulence, and the wide eyeport and anti-scratch face shield (equipped with an anti-fog Max Vision Pinlock lens) enhance rider vision. The interior is plush, anti-bacterial, and moisture-wicking for comfort and stability.
Certified by DOT and meeting ECE 22.06 standards, the K6 S prioritizes safety with features like emergency release cheek pads and a collarbone-safe profile, making it ideal for any ride from daily commutes to spirited adventures.
For a more affordable AGV, try the K3 Compound ($218 at Amazon).
$549.95 at plenty of colors, styles, graphics treatments, and shield options, the Airflite is renowned as an affordable, versatile motorcycle helmet that's great for almost any rider and any ride.
McHugh: "It's big, it's a bit loud on the road, but damn if it isn't one of the most popular helmets on the market for the past four-ish years. You can take the shield/graphic/spoilers and customize them to look the part for any riding segment (vtwin, commuter, touring, etc). The style factor is pinnacle ICON."
$320.00 at revzillaThe Nomad is a modular full-face helmet that's a practical and affordable option for riders seeking versatility and quality. It features an injection-molded shell with an aggressive design, providing both protection and a stylish look. Equipped with multiple vents for optimal airflow and a quick-release chin bar, it's available in three colors and a wide range of sizes from XS to 5XL. It's a great choice for everyday riders who value both performance and affordability.
$139.99 at Cycle GearThe Qualifier offers an impressive array of features at a competitive price, making it an excellent choice for riders seeking value and performance. Its aerodynamic shell enhances stability and comfort across various riding positions, while Bell's Click-Release system allows for easy and fast shield changes without tools. By combining quality design and innovative features, the Bell Qualifier appeals to those looking for both functionality and style in their protective gear.
For an even safer option, check out the Qualifier DLS MIPS (from $290 at Revzilla).
$129.95 at helmet manufacturer Shoei has been synonymous with premium quality since 1959, and the Neotec has been one of the company's most popular models for years. For this latest version, ventilation is superb, wind noise is minimal, and the micro-ratcheting stainless steel chin bar lets you breathe, chat, drink, and more.
The interior is fully removable, washable, and customizable, meaning you can dial in the perfect fit that's just right for you. Best of all, the Sena SRL2 helmet communications system ($299 at Amazon) is tailor-made for this helmet.
$899.99 at revzillaThe Bullitt—yes, it's named after the Steve McQueen film—made hipster waves when it was launched a few years back, mainly due to its cool retro style that hearkens back to the OG Bell Star helmet of the late 60s and early 70s. Its best feature is the large eyeport, which allows a lot of air (and yes, noise) in, letting the rider become more fully immersed in their environment. The Bullitt's style—it's available in a multitude of graphics and colors—and quality make it a staple at any bike night.
I own a couple of Bullitts because I love the comfort as much as the wide eyeport and variety of graphics and colors available. The view from the inside is spectacular, thanks to the expanded peripheral vision. It can be noisy on the highway, however, and its relaxed fit and breezy eyeport aren't conducive to super sporty riding or even long touring because of the noise and lack of venting at top and back. But if I'm just casually cruising or commuting, the Bullitt is my go-to.
The Bullitt is also available in a lighter, safer Carbon shell ($700 at Revzilla).
$439.95 at actually selected this helmet's precursor, the acclaimed Corsair-V, calling it "one of the best options on the market from Japan." The Corsair-X is the latest version, and takes that helmet's legendary performance and comfort to an entirely new level with a stronger shell and smoother shape that redirects impact energy rather than absorbs it. The interior lining features ear-pocket recesses to accommodate speakers and the shell comes in five distinct sizes. It's perfect for track days.
For top-of-the-line track performance, opt for the super-pricey Corsair-X RC ($3686 at Revzilla).
$782.96 at cycle gearDesigned to bridge the gap between sport riding and touring, the HJC RPHA 71 meets the needs of riders who want the lightweight performance, airflow, and protection of a race helmet and the comfort, quiet, and convenience of a touring helmet.
McHugh recommends this HJC helmet on personal experience: "I daily ride my RPHA 70 ST, and while the new 71 is a bit more touring-oriented, [it] has some really cool features. It flows a ton of air and the drop-down internal smoke visor can be adjusted so you can even wear sunglasses underneath. They also partnered with Sena for a built-in comm system, as a lot of companies are doing these days."
A newer Carbon version is also available ($630 at Revzilla).
$379.99 at Adventure, or dual-sport riding has exploded in popularity in recent years. But every rider knows that when it's time to transition from asphalt to dirt, a street helmet just won't cut it. The Bell MX-9 Adventure features three shell sizes plus multiple colors and styles, and the MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) technology absorbs side and glancing impacts to keep the head and neck more stable.
The lightweight polycarbonate shell comes in three different sizes, mitigating bulk and providing a more comfortable fit. Bell's velocity-flow ventilation system keeps air flowing while the removable and washable liner and cheek pads keep sweat and bacteria build-up at bay. The MX-9 ADV helmet can also transform into a more street-able helmet by removing the peak visor.
"It's the best bang-for-buck ADV helmet money can get you," McHugh said. "You can set it up for the trail or the road or both on a long trip.... You'll see this at damn near every single ADV ride out there."
$240.00 at you want a helmet with built-in communications so you can take or make phone calls, listen to music or podcasts, or search using a voice assistant, renowned helmet comms manufacturer SENA offers the Impulse, a modular "smart" helmet with an integrated communications system featuring sound by Harmon Kardon.
Better still, it boasts an integrated rear-facing taillight for better visibility, plenty of vents for improved airflow, and a retractable internal sun visor. If you want mobile connectivity without plunking down for, and installing, a separate helmet comms system in your current helmet, this is the upgrade.
$580.58 at Scorpion EXO Covert helmet is made using fiberglass, aramid, and polyresin fibers for superior strength and extremely light weight. The low-profile shell has been aerodynamically tuned for minimizing lift and turbulence for a smoother, quieter, and more stable ride.
Integrated speaker pockets make it easy to install your favorite Bluetooth communication device, while the moisture-wicking liner will keep you cool, dry, and comfortable during your ride.
$254.95 at brought its classic 500 helmet back to the future with the Neo-retro Custom 500. A new headform fits better and looks smaller, and the thin-profile shell allows it to sit lower on the head. With five shell sizes, it's easy to get the look you want while getting a great helmet for that open-faced riding experience. It comes in white, matte or gloss black, and this sick silver flake.
Note: McHugh didn't recommend this helmet either, saying "I'm not really one for recommending open-face helmets—just too many safety concerns even though they're so popular." But if you're looking to rock the open-face look, this is a fantastic choice. Cruiser-face, engage!
$144.95 at in design and materials have made helmets safer and lighter than even helmets from a decade ago—another reason to upgrade your helmet every five years. Helmets are lighter and safer than ever, and many chinstrap styles have moved beyond the D-ring slip-and-loop system of yore, incorporating modern fasteners like quick-release buckles and clasps.
Most modern motorcycle helmets can also be outfitted with features such as internal speakers, rider communications systems, and more. Plenty of companies have tried, but sadly, a truly functional head-up display has yet to come to market.
So what should you look for in a motorcycle helmet, and what should you run far away from? Revzilla's YouTube channel offers a fantastic 2-minute video on how to buy the right helmet for you. Even the NHTSA has a great list of guidelines on how to choose the right motorcycle helmet.
First and foremost, size and fit are the keys to a motorcycle helmet's comfort—and its safety. A helmet that doesn't fit right could move around or come off completely in a severe impact crash, eliminating its efficiency. Even if the helmet stays on but moves around on your head, it could compromise any safety features the helmet might offer. See below to determine the best shape and size for your helmet.
When it comes to features, get a helmet with adjustable airflow vents. Venting is essential on hot days; sweated-up helmets can end up smelly, and cleaning the interior padding can be tricky. On soggy, humid days, face shields can fog up while riding. Vents will help keep fresh air flowing.
Look for helmets with a removable lining for easy cleaning. Many offer removable cheek pads to improve fitment, and some will offer removable ear pads for installing aftermarket speakers and in-helmet comms systems. Versatility is key here.
Many helmets offer switchable face shields that allow you to swap in shaded or colored visors. These are key for riders who wear glasses or don't want to wear sunglasses under their helmets. Some pricier helmets will even come with an optional shaded visor. Flip-down interior sun visors are also popular; they're usually actuated by a lever on the helmet's shell that's easy to flip with gloves on.
Despite the temptation, avoid buying a used motorcycle helmet. Helmets are designed to absorb a severe impact once; after that, their ability to function in the event of another crash is deeply compromised. So if you ever go down and bang your helmet on the ground, always buy a new helmet before you ride again. Moreover, many secondhand items purchased online from private sellers are, shall we say, not always exactly as described.
Never buy any helmet that doesn't have a permanent DOT sticker on it. Helmets without this U.S. Department of Transportation approval sticker are considered by law to be "novelty helmets" and are illegal to wear while riding (except in states without mandatory helmet laws, of course). More importantly, they simply won't protect your head in a crash.
Even better, look for Snell certification when shopping for motorcycle helmets. Snell is an independent non-profit organization with a far more rigorous testing process than either DOT or ECE (European helmet standards). Snell puts helmets through their paces and randomly re-tests them occasionally, to ensure the latest versions are up to its stringent standards.
If you're considering buying an off-brand helmet online, watch out for counterfeits disguised as the real thing; we've seen plenty of fake "DOT" and "Snell" stickers for sale at rally booths and even on the internet. Don't fall for it! An authentic regulatory sticker will be non-removable and shellacked over. If you can peel it, don't buy come in three main shape styles—round oval, intermediate oval (most common), and long oval. While we all generally have between a round and oval-shaped head, it's important to determine your actual shape before buying a helmet.
According to Revzilla's McHugh, you will know what head shape fits you best when you identify the shape that fits snugly without points of increased pressure (hot spots) or areas with no contact between the helmet liner and your head. Use a mirror or have a friend look down on your head from the top. Remember to focus on your head shape, not the shape of your face.
Here are some tips on head shapes, direct from Revzilla:
The least common head shape
More spherical than their more oval counterparts
Riders with round head shapes are likely to feel hot spots at the temple along with extra space at the forehead when wearing intermediate or long oval helmets
The most common head shape
Slightly thinner than it is long
Most helmets made for the North-American market follow this shape
Less common head shape
Designed for riders whose head is substantially thinner than it is long
Riders with this head shape tend to feel hot spots along the forehead and some extra space at the temple when wearing intermediate or round helmets
When measuring your head's size, use a cloth measuring tape. Start just above your eyebrows and circle it around the thickest point in the rear of your head. Cross-reference this measurement with a helmet size chart to find your size.
Note: It's essential to measure your head with a tape measure. Much like clothing, helmet sizes and even size charts can vary by brand; what's a Large from one company might be an XL from another.
A correctly sized helmet should feel a little tight, providing even pressure around your head without uncomfortable pressure points. A new helmet that fits a bit snug will be fine, and sometimes even preferred; most helmet linings "break in" 15 to 20 percent after use.
Next, grab the chinbar (if applicable) and yank the helmet back and forth; your cheeks and head should move—not the helmet. It should also not move when you shake your head around. If it does, size down.
Our advice? Head to a motorcycle dealership or your local Cycle Gear store (there are 140 across the U.S.) and try on a few helmets before purchasing one they offer the most coverage around your head, face, and neck, full-face helmets are generally considered the safest type of motorcycle helmet. A full-face helmet is a versatile choice for all riders, regardless of the type of motorcycle you ride or where you ride it.
Clearly, having a chinbar offers a ton of advantages over 3/4 helmets and caps. Not only does a chinbar provide advanced protection for your face, jaw, and chin in the event you kiss the pavement, the presence of a chin bar allows motorcyclists to flip down a visor for eye protection. Moreover, a closed helmet is far quieter than an open helmet because it dramatically reduces wind noise, especially at speed. Full faced helmets are generally considered the best motorcycle helmets, no matter your riding style.
Carbon-fiber motorcycle helmets are generally lighter. Plus, they're usually more robust and durable than regular helmets because the force of impact is distributed more equally across their surface. The only drawback is they cost more.
A MIPS helmet uses a Multi-directional Impact Protection System to protect against head and brain damage, especially from angled impacts. MIPS helmets have a floating shell that's close to the head. During an impact, the shell can move back and forth, absorbing and redirecting forces that would otherwise go to the brain. The sliding motion of the shell reduces rotational forces on the brain, reducing the risk of rotational brain injury.
Generally, expensive helmets are quieter, better ventilated, more aerodynamic, and more comfortable. Fit and finish are often better too, with quality linings, fastenings, paint, graphics, etc. If you can afford one, it's definitely worth the spend.
When you pay more for a helmet, you may get a better fit and finish, more vents and features, and snazzier graphics. But any helmet with a DOT sticker should offer comparable, basic impact protection. Bottom line: Look for a helmet that fits you well. If it also looks good and is comfortable at a great price, all the better.
No. Spend a bit more and buy a new one. Motorcycle helmets are high-tech safety devices that are designed to absorb serious impact. Once a helmet hits the deck, its protective properties have probably been compromised. Even if a used helmet looks okay, its rider may have gone down. It may have even fallen off a high shelf, for all you know. Either way, used helmets are a hard pass.
DOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) and ECE (European) are government-run helmet regulatory agencies that evaluate helmet safety. Snell is an independent, non-profit organization with far more rigorous testing processes and accreditation standards. Never buy a helmet that doesn't have a DOT or ECE sticker at least, and Snell approval at best. Beware of accreditation stickers that can be peeled off; they're likely and its sibling publications at Hearst Autos represent three of the most influential automotive publications in the world. The Gear Team relies on decades of experience in the automotive and gear spaces to help readers make informed purchasing choices about products such as Rooftop Cargo Carriers, Action Cameras for Cars, and SIM Racing Rigs.
With the legacies of Autoweek, Car and Driver, and Road & Track behind us, the Hearst Autos Gear Team is more concerned with the trust our readers have in us than our bottom line. We won't tell you to buy something if we wouldn't buy it ourselves or recommend it to our friends, and we'll never claim to have used or tested something if we haven't. Our picks and recommendations of products and gear are based on testing and knowledge, not hype. Read more about our testing process here.
